There are a few things that are often important to classic car owners who regularly work to improve or restore their vehicles, and a reliable restoration shop in your area will commonly be on this list. Even if you carry out certain restoration projects on your own, but especially if you typically leave such jobs to the professionals, having a reputable shop just one call away is very important.

At Andersen Restoration Parts, while we are not a restoration "shop" per se, we provide a massive range of quality classic car restoration parts - and we have numerous connections throughout the industry and are happy to recommend great shops and mechanics in any location. Here are some additional tips we offer on how to search for, identify and partner with quality classic car restoration shops in your area.

Professional Recommendations

Because the classic car industry is one where true expertise can be hard to come by, referrals from other classic car owners and restoration experts can be the best way to find a great shop. Not only will they have experience with the type of work you need done, but they may also give you an honest opinion about what needs to be done and whether it is worth doing.

For instance, if you have a friend or family member who owns a classic car and has used the same restoration shop for years, this is an excellent place to start. Talk to them about their experiences with the shop's work and customer service, and get their opinion on whether they would recommend it to you.

Online Reviews

Reading online reviews can be a great way to narrow down your choices when selecting a classic car restoration shop. Many of the popular review websites, such as Yelp, Google Reviews, and Angie's List, have ratings for local classic car restoration shops that can help you find a great one in your area.

However, it is important to keep in mind that while reviews can be helpful, they should not be the only information you take into consideration when making your decision. Ultimately, you should consider both positive and negative reviews as part of a larger picture.

Specific Services

Perhaps even more than a traditional car mechanic, you need to be sure that any classic car restoration shop you're considering is well-equipped to handle the specific job you need done. It's important to make sure they have the necessary tools and parts for your particular type of car, as well as a good track record at servicing that type of vehicle.

For instance, if you own a classic muscle car, try to find a shop that specializes in these types of cars. You should also make sure they have the right parts and tools to work on your particular model; for example, some early 1970s muscle cars may require special tools or parts that not all shops will carry.

Confirm Availability

If you've identified a few shops that you would like to consider, be sure to call and ask about their availability. Classic car restoration jobs can sometimes take a long time, so it's important to make sure the shop is not already booked up for several months or more.

Also, if there are certain parts you need installed or replaced, you should verify with the shop that they have them in-stock. Some parts may take a while to order, so make sure you allow for enough time before your project is due.

You Can Always Change Your Mind

When selecting a classic car restoration shop, always remember that your first choice doesn't have to be your final choice. If you realize early in your project that you are not happy with the shop's work, don't be afraid to look for a new one to finish the job. As long as you're upfront about your expectations and communicate clearly with the restoration team, it is possible to make sure you get a great final product.

At Andersen Restoration Parts, we understand that selecting a classic car restoration shop can be a difficult decision, and we are always happy to provide advice and referrals to our customers. Give us a call today if you have any questions about finding the best classic car restoration shop for your project, or about any of our high-quality classic car restoration parts we offer to clients.